England have confirmed psychologist Dr Steve Peters will accompany them to the World Cup finals, with captain Steven Gerrard claiming the British Cycling man has helped him produce his most consistent form for club and country.

Peters has worked closely with Britain’s top road and track cyclists, helping the like of Tour de France winners Sir Bradley Wiggins and double Olympic champion Victoria Pendleton achieve their best results by mastering the mental side of their sport.

Peters has been working with a number of Liverpool players, including Gerrard, for some time and the Anfield skipper said: ‘As a player you have to get every advantage you can.

‘Steve is not in your face forcing you to see him [but] if he can give me that one, two per cent in addition to what I’ve already got I’ll use him.’

Sir Bradley Wiggins has benefited from working with Steve Peters (Picture: Getty)

He revealed he had first used the psychologist after the 2010 World Cup and claims Peters helped resurrect his career. ‘I feared for my career and went to see him in a one on one situation. I liked the work he did with me,’ explained the Liverpool man.

‘He’s helped me with my mental preparation. I’ve found my most consistent form for England and Liverpool since seeing Steve.’

Peters is expected to help England prepare with the mental challenge of any potential penalty shoot-out, as well as being available for any player who feels he could be of help.